Podcast
Apostolic Life in the 21st Century
Hosted by David K. Bernard · EN
A podcast dedicated to helping modern-day believers live out the teachings of the first century church. This podcast is part of the teaching ministry of Dr. David K. Bernard, the general superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International.
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Gifts of Healing: A Gift for Some or a Sign for All?
3d ago00:06:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question about divine healing and the gifts of the Spirit.In 1 Corinthians 12, the apostle Paul lists the “gifts of healing” (verse 9) among the spiritual gifts and makes it clear that not every believer operates in this gift (verse 30). Yet in Mark 16:18, Jesus said believers would lay hands on the sick and they would recover.Is healing a special ministry given only to certain individuals, or is it a sign that can follow any Spirit-filled believer? Dr. Bernard responds to this important question, offering clarity and balance on a topic that is central to Pentecostal theology and practice.For further study, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Called by God or Hired by a Search Committee?
1w ago00:10:49Tap to summarizeWhat does it really mean to be “called” to a ministry?In Pentecostal circles, pastors often testify that God specifically led them to a church, city, or ministry assignment. Congregations likewise take comfort in believing their pastor was divinely directed, not merely hired like someone applying for a job.But that raises an important question.After seeing a church advertise a pastoral opening on Facebook, a viewer asked: If ministry is truly a calling from God, is it appropriate to post pastor vacancies publicly like any other job opportunity? Does that diminish the sacred nature of pastoral ministry, or can churches faithfully combine spiritual discernment with practical processes?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the biblical concept of calling, the relationship between divine guidance and church decision-making, and how ministers and congregations can navigate pastoral transitions in a Spirit-led way.Whether you are a pastor, church leader, ministry student, or faithful church member, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into one of the most important aspects of church life and leadership.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Should Apostolics Pursue Higher Education?
2w ago00:23:27Tap to summarizeShould Apostolics pursue higher education, or does academic study put faith at risk?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question facing many in the Apostolic movement. Should higher education be approached with caution, or is it essential to the future of the church? What is the proper perspective?Drawing from his own academic journey and decades of ministry leadership, Dr. Bernard makes a compelling case for the value of education within the Apostolic Pentecostal movement. He explains why the church needs educated, Spirit-filled leaders and how believers can pursue higher education without compromising biblical convictions.He also speaks directly to those wrestling with this decision, offering practical guidance for students, reassurance for parents, and vision for leaders who care about the long-term strength of the church.Whether you’re considering college, mentoring the next generation, or thinking about the future of Apostolic ministry, this episode offers clarity, balance, and insight.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current events through a biblical lens.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Who Was Tertullian?
3w ago00:14:05Tap to summarizeWho was Tertullian—and why does he still matter to Christians today?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the life, writings, and lasting influence of one of the most significant figures in early church history. Frequently cited in discussions about the development of the doctrine of the Trinity, Tertullian’s ideas continue to shape theological conversations centuries later.Dr. Bernard examines who Tertullian was and the role he played in shaping early Christian thought. He also addresses how certain theological terms and concepts emerged during this period, and why understanding that development is essential for interpreting Scripture accurately today.Listeners will gain insight into: • Tertullian’s background and influence in the early church • Why his writings are central to discussions about the Trinity • How his legacy impacts modern Christian belief and practiceIf you’re interested in church history, theology, or the foundations of Christian doctrine, this episode offers clear, thoughtful, and biblically grounded insight.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering important questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current issues facing the church today.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Is the Pope Really the Successor to Peter?
Apr 2000:17:45Tap to summarizeWith the Pope once again in the global spotlight, questions about his authority—and the authority of the church he leads—are drawing renewed attention.Both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim an unbroken line of leadership stretching back to the apostles. According to this view, today’s bishops—and ultimately the Pope—stand in direct succession to the apostle Peter.But how strong is this claim?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines whether there is credible historical evidence for an unbroken chain of authority—and whether such a lineage, even if proven, would establish theological authority.Dr. Bernard discusses:The origins and development of apostolic succession claimsThe biblical role of Peter in the early churchThe difference between historical continuity and doctrinal authorityWhy apostolic teaching—not just succession—is essential to the identity of the churchThis timely episode brings clarity to a complex and often misunderstood topic, helping listeners evaluate competing claims through the lens of Scripture.If you’ve ever wondered how to assess claims of church authority—or what truly defines the New Testament church—this episode offers thoughtful, balanced, and biblical insight.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Are There “Heaven or Hell” Rules for Christians?
Apr 1300:16:47Tap to summarizeAre there any “Heaven or Hell” rules Christians must follow in order to be saved? If so, what are they and how should we understand them?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this frequently-asked question which often arises in discussions about holiness, not only among Oneness Pentecostals, but across conservative Christian communities.Dr. Bernard provides biblical insight into:The difference between living by faith and falling into legalismThe vital connection between faith and obedienceHow to approach holiness without reducing it to a checklistWhat this question reveals about how we view our relationship with GodIf you’ve ever wrestled with what God truly requires of believers, this episode offers clarity, balance, and a deeper understanding of Scripture.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current issues from a biblical perspective.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Can We Really Do Greater Works than Jesus?
Apr 600:04:57Tap to summarizeCan We Really Do Greater Works than Jesus?Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. BernardIn John 14:12, Jesus made a remarkable promise: “He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do.” But what did He mean?Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, and demonstrated power over nature itself. How could believers possibly do “greater” works than these?In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard provides clear, biblical insight into this passage. Rather than pointing to greater individual miracles, he explains how Jesus’ words reveal the expanded scope of His work through the church—empowered by the Holy Spirit and fulfilled through the global spread of the gospel after Pentecost.Discover how this promise applies to believers today and what it reveals about the ongoing mission of the church.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Did Jesus Go Preach in Hell?
Mar 3000:13:43Tap to summarizeDid Jesus Go Preach in Hell?What happened between Good Friday and Easter Sunday?Christians around the world pause each year to remember the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We commemorate His crucifixion on Good Friday and celebrate His resurrection on Easter Sunday—but what does the Bible say about the time in between?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines key passages such as Acts 2:27 and 1 Peter 3:19, which are often interpreted to mean that Jesus descended into Hell and preached to imprisoned spirits. Did Christ actually go to Hell? Was He preaching to the lost? Or are these verses commonly misunderstood?With careful attention to Scripture, Dr. Bernard offers a clear and biblically grounded explanation of what Jesus was doing between His death and resurrection. This episode helps listeners separate tradition from biblical teaching while deepening their understanding of Christ’s finished work.As Easter approaches, this timely discussion will strengthen your confidence in the gospel message and provide clarity on one of the most frequently asked questions about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →How to Pray with Spiritual Seekers
Mar 2300:19:49Tap to summarizeHow to Pray with Spiritual SeekersApostolics are rightly passionate about praying with those who are seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit, but some approaches can become overly emotional or place unintended pressure on seekers. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers practical guidance for praying with others in a way that avoids manipulation, honors the work of the Spirit, and upholds sound doctrine.This episode provides valuable insights for pastors, altar workers, and anyone who desires to see people genuinely receive the Holy Ghost according to the pattern of Scripture.For more on this subject, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Leadership in the Twenty-First Century. Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Is It OK for Christians to Sue?
Mar 1600:11:13Tap to summarizeIs It OK for Christians to Sue?An Apostolic believer recently asked an important question: If a Christian is injured in an accident, is it wrong to seek compensation through legal action?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to a real-life situation involving an auto accident that resulted in injuries and property damage. The listener wondered whether forgiving the person responsible means they must also give up pursuing compensation for medical expenses, damages, or pain and suffering.Dr. Bernard examines biblical principles related to forgiveness, personal responsibility, civil law, and Christian conduct. He explains how believers can maintain a Christlike spirit while navigating situations that involve loss, injury, and legal accountability.This episode offers practical guidance for Christians seeking to apply Scripture faithfully in complex real-world circumstances.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
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